Written by Lena Borrelli, Contributing Writer
Reviewed by
Nina RaemontWhy you can trust ZDNET
33 years of experience
30 hands-on product reviewers
10,000 square feet of lab space
What to Consider
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Features
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Price
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Performance
Apple TV 4K
Best streaming device overall
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Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
Best streaming device for Alexa
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Chromecast with Google TV HD
Best streaming device for Google Assistant
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Nvidia Shield TV
Best streaming device for gamers
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Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Best streaming device for Roku
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Technology has changed the way we live our lives, and watching TV is no different. After all, it's not just about TV anymore. You no longer need a smart TV when you have smart capabilities in the portable package of a streaming device. A streaming device offers greater flexibility, giving you many ways to watch your favorite content.
Also:The best movies and shows to stream right now
But first, you need the right streaming device. We scoured the market, comparing brands and models, to find the very best streaming devices you can buy today. My choice for the best streaming device is the Apple TV 4K for its affordability, fast app loading, and A12 Bionic chip. You can keep reading below to find out more about the Apple TV 4K as well as our other top picks for the best streaming devices.
The best streaming devices of 2024
Pros
- Very fast response time
- Bluetooth connectivity
- More affordable
Cons
- Lacks location tracking
- Missing HDMI cable
Apple TV 4K
Best streaming device overall
Apple TV 4K tech specs: Resolution: 4K | Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi | Capacity: 32 GB, 64 GB | Video output: 2160p, Dolby Vision, HDR10
Apple TV 4K works with all of your Apple devices and services, offering an unparalleled experience for the Apple fan. The 4K High Frame Rate HDR and Dolby Vision, combined with Apple's A12 Bionic chip, mean a stellar picture, while Dolby Atmos sound guarantees superior sound. Your Apple TV 4K gives you access to Apple Originals with Apple TV+. You also have the option to enjoy Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, and Apple Music. For easier control, the unique remote skips the buttons and instead offers a touch clickpad.
Read the review: Apple TV 4K review
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Pros
- Super affordable
- High resolution
- WiFi 6 compatibility
Cons
- Lacks Google Cast
- No Apple AirPlay
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
Best streaming device for Alexa
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max tech specs: Resolution: 4K Ultra HD | Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi | Capacity: 8 GB | Video output: 2160p, 1080p and 720p up to 60 fps
When you want access to Alexa, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max delivers. The Alexa Voice Remote simplifies things considerably, giving you complete control over your Amazon Fire streaming stick. The latest iteration of the Fire TV Stick 4K Max will also support generative AI functionality for improved Alexa responses to requests, which allows for greater accessibility.
With Wi-Fi 6E support, you will also enjoy Dolby Vision, HDR 10, and HDR10+ viewing with Dolby Atmos sound. You receive a stellar picture with 4K Ultra HD viewing, combined with a quad-core 1.8 GHz processor for faster streaming. It also supports cloud gaming services like Amazon Luna as well as the Fire TV ambient mode that lets you create a custom artwork or photography slideshow to turn your living room into a personally curated gallery when you aren't binge-watching reality TV.
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Pros
- Super fast
- Very affordable
- Easy-to-use remote
Cons
- Upgrade is just a few dollars more
- Restricted storage
Chromecast with Google TV HD
Best streaming device for Google Assistant
Chromecast with Google TV HD tech specs: Resolution: 4K HDR | Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi | Capacity: 8 GB | Video output: 1080p HDR, 60 FPS Pixels
Chromecast with Google TV HD gives you access to Google Assistant, greatly simplifying life with its voice control. It works with your Google TV, giving you HDR[3] viewing, which means a better, clearer picture. With wireless Bluetooth connectivity, you can choose from live TV or on-demand content. You can also use your Chromecast to help around the house, such as turning out lights or changing the temperature.
Read the review: Chromecast with Google TV review
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Pros
- 4K HDR streaming
- Google Assistant
- Tons of ports
Cons
- Pricey
- Dated
Nvidia Shield TV
Best streaming device for gamers
Nvidia Shield TV tech specs: Resolution: 4K | Connectivity: Ethernet, WiFi | Capacity: 8 GB | Video output: 2160p
There's no doubt about it -- Nvidia Shield TV is the best streaming device for gaming. Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos pair together for an excellent picture with greater sound. The NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor offers lightning-fast processing and supports Android TV version 11. It accepts both Wi-Fi and ethernet for connectivity while supporting a number of different streaming apps like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, and Pandora. A voice control remote comes included.
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Pros
- Simple to use
- Dolby Vision
- Tons of apps
Cons
- No USB-C charging
- Lacks WiFi 6
Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Best streaming device for Roku
Roku Streaming Stick 4K tech specs: Resolution: 4K | Connectivity: WiFi | Video output: 2160p, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR 10+
Roku is a powerhouse when it comes to streaming devices, making it easily one of the best streaming devices that you can buy today. It is easy to connect to all of your favorite apps, like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu. Roku also offers access to Roku Originals, plus over 275 Live Channels through the Roku Channel. No matter what you decide to watch, enjoy a beautiful picture with viewing in 4K Dolby Vision with long-range WiFi. The voice remote serves to further simplify things.
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What is the best streaming device?
Apple TV 4K offers the best streaming experience with access to all of your favorite apps with superior picture and sound. To see how it compares, this is a bird's eye view of our best streaming devices.
Best streaming device | Cost | Resolution |
Apple TV 4K | $129 | 4K |
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max | $55 | 4K Ultra HD |
Chromecast with Google TV HD | $30 | 4K HDR |
Nvidia Shield TV | $150 | 4K |
Roku Streaming Stick 4K | $50 | 4K |
Which is the best streaming device for you?
To help you decide, these are our expert recommendations based on our study.
Choose this best streaming device... | If you want... |
Apple TV 4K | A high–performing streaming device with great picture, sound, and Apple's bionic chip. It's one of the most expensive streamer's on our list but very worth it. |
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max | An affordable streamer with the newest version of Alexa built-in. The Fire TV Stick also comes with Amazon Luna for gaming. |
Chromecast with Google TV HD | A streamer that also includes Google Assistant. |
Nvidia Shield TV | To do a lot of gaming. The Nvidia Shield TV also comes with a voice control remote. |
Roku Streaming Stick 4K | An affordable powerhouse of a streamer. |
How did we choose these best streaming devices?
There are several factors we consider when choosing the best streaming devices.
- Performance: The speed with which a streaming device works is a major factor when choosing the best streaming device. Some devices work much faster, offering quick streaming that means a more stable picture.
- Picture and sound: Whether it is Dolby Vision or Dolby Atmos, we look for streaming devices that use the latest technology to provide a superior picture with significantly better sound.
- Apps: The best streaming devices offer access to your favorite apps, whether it is Netflix, Prime Video, or Disney+.
- Voice support: Whether it is Amazon's Alexa or Apple's Siri, there are voice control remotes that can also offer support around the home, such as help turning on and off the lights.
- Price: Budget is an important factor we keep at the forefront when searching for the best streaming devices.
What is a streaming device and how does it work?
A streaming device works over a Wi-Fi or wired connection, using an internet connection to allow for instant, on-demand streaming. You can connect to many popular apps, such as Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu.
Do streaming devices have monthly fees?
Streaming devices do not have any monthly fees, but you may face fees with your favorite streaming services and channels, such as Disney+ and HBO. Before you sign up for a new service, be sure to check pricing and terms to determine that it is the right fit for you.
How much does a streaming device cost?
The best streaming devices range in cost from $30 to almost $150, depending on the model you choose. However, there are many different streaming devices available, so you should be able to find something within your budget.
Are there alternative streaming devices to consider?
For more options, check out these options that almost made our list of the best streaming devices.
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